Ambode, Aboderin make a case for quality education

The Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, and Chairman, Atlantic Hall Educational Trust Council, Ms. Lola Aboderin, have said that the provision of quality education to youths is a justifiable investment.

They said this at the 25th Valedictory and Graduation ceremony of the Atlantic Hall, Epe, Lagos on Friday.

Ambode, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr. Adeshina Odeyemi, noted that qualitative education was the best gift that any parent could give to his child.

He said, “Twenty-five years of unwavering commitment to shaping the minds and character of future generation while remaining consistent to the highest academic standard is worthy of commendation.

“By this achievement, you (graduands) have justified the investment of your parents and guardians who believe that the greatest legacy that can be given to you is qualitative education.

“As you brace up to the challenges ahead in your educational sojourn, I enjoin you to put into practice all the values, discipline and knowledge you have been taught.”

He advised the graduands to be good ambassadors of the school anywhere they found themselves.

Ambode said, “Always remember that you are the investment of your parents as well as the efforts of your teachers. These investments and efforts are with only one expectation, which is for you to excel and be a shining star in your generation.

“Wherever you find yourselves, be good ambassadors of your families and your alma mater. All eyes are on you; the society looks forward to you optimising your potential. You cannot afford to fail, I pray you will not be a disappointment.”

In her address, Aboderin explained that quality education remained a reliable tool for the transformation of lives of youths in the country.

The Chairman, Atlantic Hall Educational Trust Council said, “I am a strong believer in the enormous possibilities inherent in the human potential and the critical role education plays in developing it. I believe most of us are here today precisely because we believe education can make our lives better, and that through quality education, we can significantly empower our people and, drastically transform our nation and our communities. It is for this reason that we must insist on the provision of quality education at all levels in this nation.”

She also admonished the graduands to be determined and confident in making changes in the society.

Aboderin said, “Take a careful inventory of your habits and replace less desirable habits with good ones. Remember that you can only mould your character and future by thoughts and acts.

“Your life should be motivated by good thoughts, expressed in good works and sustained by determination to always act righteously. This is a necessary ingredient for cultivating the right habits that will positively direct your lives and shape your character.

“As young people, you should have enough determination to stand out in the crowd. No matter the circumstance or the situation, you should work for your honour and protect it at all times. Integrity carries the thought of being upright, blameless, righteous and faultless. Integrity is not restricted to a certain aspect of human behaviour, and it involves more than just doing what you think is right.”

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